Mesilla Valley CASA is hosting a New Advocate Training Session in September. Learn how to advocate for children living in foster care in Dona Ana County, ensuring that they don't linger in the system. Find out how you can change a child’s story.
September 2019 Training Dates:
Day 1: Tuesday, September 10, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.
Day 2: Saturday, September 14, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Day 3: Tuesday, September 17, from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.
Day 4: Saturday, September 21, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
Swearing-in: Monday, September 23, from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m.
Applicants must complete a written application, criminal background and CPS checks, and a complete social history interview where the applicant's own childhood experience is examined. This interview is not for staff to judge what a person has been through, rather, it is a time for the applicant to share with staff the events that have shaped who the applicant is today.
Applicants then participate in Pre-service Training which consists of two evening sessions, including an orientation where we discuss the role and responsibility of CASA advocates; two full Saturday sessions where we discuss all aspects of child welfare, including the contributing factors to child abuse and neglect (poverty, mental health, substance abuse, lack of parenting skills, etc). Then, all applicants attend a swearing-in ceremony before the Children's Court Judge, where applicants take an Oath of Service to uphold the confidentiality of the cases. After new advocates are sworn in, they observe court hearings, and attend a luncheon with current volunteers.
Complete the online form here or call 575-527-0035 for more information!